Cupping Therapy Practice Exam

What is the recommended treatment for a first degree burn caused by fire cupping?

1. Ice the burn and apply over-the-counter burn cream

2. Run cool water over burn and apply sterile gauze

3. Apply sterile gauze over the burn

4. Run cool water over burn and pat dry

The correct answer is: Run cool water over burn and apply sterile gauze

The recommended treatment for a first-degree burn caused by fire cupping involves running cool water over the burn and applying sterile gauze. This approach is key for effective first aid. First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin, causing redness, minor swelling, and pain. Cooling the burn with running cool water helps to minimize damage by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. It is important to ensure that the water is not too cold, as extreme temperatures can worsen the burn. Applying sterile gauze afterward helps to protect the area from further irritation or infection, as it provides a barrier against dirt and bacteria. Keeping the burn covered can also help retain moisture, which supports the natural healing process. Other options like icing the burn might lead to further tissue damage or cause constriction of blood vessels, complicating the body's response to healing. Over-the-counter burn creams may contain ingredients that aren't suitable for first-degree burns and could irritate the skin. Simply patting dry without appropriate cooling might leave the area exposed and may not provide the care needed for optimal recovery.